Smallpox (Smallpox) is a highly contagious disease caused by the smallpox virus (Variavirus), which has historically led to a massive epidemic and high mortality rates. Despite the global elimination of smallpox, which was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1980, its potential biosafety threat, diagnosis, treatment and prevention remain important research topics in the field of medicine and public health. This paper will elaborate on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of smallpox.
I. Diagnosis of smallpox
The diagnosis of smallpox relies mainly on clinical performance and laboratory testing. Accurate diagnosis is particularly important as smallpox symptoms are similar to other heat rash diseases such as pox.
(i) Clinical performance
1. Vaccination period: usually 7-17 days, with no apparent symptoms.
2. Pre-dispension period: At the beginning of the onset of the disease, the symptoms of high heat, headaches, back pains, weakness, nausea, etc., in the whole body lasted 2-4 days.
3. Period of rash:
Distribution of rashes: The rash first appears in the face and limbs and then extends to the torso, with a centrifugal distribution.
Herpes, herpes, herpes, herpes and rashes have evolved: all rashes are usually at the same stage of development.
Other characteristics: the abdomen are hard and deep, accompanied by obvious pain, and may leave permanent scarring after the abdomen.
(ii) Laboratory testing
1. Virus separation and identification: virus identification through the development of a separate smallpox virus.
PCR testing: The testing of specific DNA sequences of smallpox viruses is a rapid and sensitive diagnostic method.
3. Electronic microscope examination: direct observation of viral particles in rash fluids.
Serumological testing: testing smallpox virus specific antibodies for use in supporting diagnosis.
(iii) Identification of diagnosis
Smallpox needs to be identified with other feverous rash diseases such as pox, measles, red fever, etc. The distribution of small rashes is more concentrated in the face and limbs than in the pox, and the rash is developed in a synchronized fashion, while the pox rash is found in the torso and is not synchronized.
II. Treatment of smallpox
At present, smallpox does not have specific antiviral treatment, which is mainly based on treatment support. The following are the main measures for smallpox treatment:
(i) Segregation and infection control
Strict segregation: Patients diagnosed or suspected to be smallpox need to be immediately isolated to avoid transmission of the virus.
2. Environmental sterilisation: Total sterilisation of objects and environment exposed to patients to prevent the spread of the virus.
(ii) Patient support treatment
1. Retortion and pain relief: The use of acetaminophenol or brofen for heat and pain relief.
2. Refilling and nutritional support: maintenance of hydrolytic balance, provision of high-heat, high-protein diets and increased body immunity.
Skin care: Keep skin clean and prevent secondary bacterial infections.
(iii) Anti-virus treatment (experimental)
Although smallpox has been eliminated, research on antiviral drugs against smallpox viruses is still under way. The following drugs may be effective for the smallpox virus:
1. Tecovirimat: An antiviral drug targeting membrane proteins from smallpox has been approved for treatment of monkey and other pox infections.
2. Cidofovir: a wide spectrum of antiviral drugs that can be used to treat serious pox infection.
3. Brincidofovir: Derivatives of West Dofove are less toxic and may be used in smallpox treatment.
(iv) Treatment of complications
1. Secondary bacterial infections: use of broad spectrum antibiotics to treat secondary skin or lung infections.
2. Other complications, such as pneumonia and encephalitis, require tailored treatment.
III. Prevention of smallpox
Smallpox prevention depends mainly on vaccination and public health measures.
(i) Immunization
1. Smallpox vaccine: Smallpox vaccine is a life-saving vaccine prepared by the pox virus, which provides effective protection for smallpox.
Immunization effects: smallpox vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of infection and reduce the severity of the disease.
Vaccination time: Vaccination within four days of exposure is effective in preventing morbidity or mitigating symptoms.
2. Vaccination taboos: Vaccinations against smallpox should be avoided for persons with low immune functions, pregnant women and persons with severe skin diseases.
(ii) Post-exposure prevention
1. Close contact monitoring: medical observation of close contact with smallpox patients and monitoring of symptoms.
Post-exposure vaccination: Those in close contact should be vaccinated against smallpox as early as possible to reduce the risk of infection.
(iii) Public health measures
Early detection and reporting: strengthen monitoring and reporting of suspected cases and ensure timely preventive and control measures.
2. Segregation and disinfection: Isolation treatment of confirmed cases and complete decontamination of the environment in which they are exposed.
3. Health education: increasing public awareness of smallpox, increasing knowledge of prevention and reducing panic.
Concluding remarks
Although smallpox, as an infectious disease that once posed a serious threat to human health, has been eliminated globally, its potential biosafety threat still requires attention. Smallpox transmission and hazards can be effectively controlled through early diagnosis, treatment and vaccination. Strengthening the public health system, improving emergency preparedness and continuing research are key measures to address smallpox and other high-risk infectious diseases.
Smallpox. Smallpox.
